Peanut Petunia

Window Treatments

2010-12-19T23:16:00.000-08:00

I'm looking to do a similar look in our bedroom and upstairs loft. But I can't seem to find any off the rack that aren't uber tacky. I love all of these--but I worry they are custom. I don't sew...do you think these would be easy to pull off if I paid someone off craigslist?

Car Problems

2010-12-16T02:31:00.000-08:00

So I recently got a new car that I am absolutely in love with. Except for the fact that...it doesn't work. We got a 2011 Lincoln MKX--the one with the commercials with the guy from Mad Men? I wanted it because of all the cool tech stuff. It has a touch screen, your pic shows up when you call me, a calendar, 3D navigation, ambient lighting that you can customize ( I love the pink), voice controls for everything and oh so much more. But, from day one, I've had issues. I am this close to calling a lawyer about the lemon law. I'm at the end of my rope and I might have to slip it over my head. So just a warning for anyone considering purchasing one--wait a few years till they have worked out the bugs.

End Table, End Table...There you are!!

2010-12-16T01:18:00.001-08:00

It finally came! And I think it really works in the space. I need to get some drapes and some more art and a slip cover for our ugly tv stand. And then MAYBE, we'll be done!

End Table, End Table...Where Art thou, End Table!?

2010-10-24T15:44:00.000-07:00

So, I ordered a table from Restoration Hardware over 6 months ago. SIX MONTHS AGO! And it still hasn't arrived! Are they aging the wood as we speak!? So aggravated. I almost want to cancel the order and order from CSN. I was looking at some of their end tables and was like damn! That's cute! Only problem with CSN is that every time I go to look for something in particular, I always find another 12 items that I think I need. And have to get. And then I have to talk to Todd about where the money went. Oh well. Totally worth it. :)

Starting a Collection

2010-08-25T20:53:00.001-07:00

I'm starting a collection of globes to help offset the mammoth desk in the office. I was inspired by some of these pics...but I don't know where they came from! Bad blogger! If they are yours, let me know! I got the two bigger globes at Good Will. The cream one at a cute shop in Snohimish and the smallest one on Etsy!

New Restoration Hardware

2010-08-25T16:30:00.000-07:00

Am I the only one that isn't completely in love with some of the new items at Restoration Hardware? I completely swooned when they first switched it up to Belgian vibe...but now some of their pieces are a little over the top for my taste. Don't get me wrong, I love a lot of their new pieces as well, but the pillars and some of the other Baroque pieces just don't do it for me. Anyone else feel that way?

5 minute shopping spree...

2010-08-19T22:11:00.000-07:00

Ran to Snohomish for literally 5 minutes today. Popped into Faded Elegance and didn't want to leave empty handed. Purchased this urn print. I think Todd needs one for his side of the bed too. :)

Craigslist Finds..that will be mine.

2010-08-17T15:38:00.000-07:00

Picking these up shortly. I think some white paint on the pink one would be perfect for my imaginary child's room. Not sure what to do with the other one. Thoughts? Suggestions?

Trying it out...

2010-08-16T15:18:00.000-07:00

Finally got around to hanging the sign I got at Barn House. Not sure if I'm in love with it there or not. Tried hanging a deer head above. It might be making a move to the guest bathroom. :)

I need your opinion.

2010-08-16T14:25:00.001-07:00

So for my birthday, I got something that I have been wanting for a long time. A fleabag! Super excited. But when it finally arrived...it was a bit bigger than I expected. I should have looked at the dimensions. My bad. And it is still a great bag, don't get me wrong...but I wanted to use it as a purse. Does it look too big for everyday use? The other problem I had with it is the buckles. I kind of thought they were faux. Now you don't have to use them to keep the bag shut...but I think they look a little messy with them undone. Again, GREAT bag..no fault of the company..I just should have read the fine print a little better. Do you think I should return it? I LOVE the way it looks. I just can't make a decision to save my life.

Winner!

2010-08-16T14:20:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Polka Dot Pear--send me your info! :)

Would you like some free money? $50 to be exact.

2010-08-09T14:22:00.000-07:00

To spend anyway you like at any of the 200 CSN Stores? Yeah, ya do! And that is just what you are gonna get!

By now, you know that CSN has EVERYTHING. From upholstered headboards to clocks. and everything in between. I've been wanting to recreate this wall of clocks and I think I might just be able to get it done through CSN.

The giveaway starts today, August 9, 2010 and ends on Friday, August 13, 2010 at Midnight. You can have your name entered multiple times and the winner will be chosen via random.org.

Here's how you can enter to win:

Visit CSN, then come back here & post a comment telling what you would purchase and your name will be entered into the drawing for the $50 giveaway. Becoming a follower isn't necessary to win, but I would love it if you did! :)

New items at Ballard Designs

2010-08-03T15:15:00.000-07:00

Lots of good stuff for fall and lots of new stuff from Suzanne Kasler !

Yummy Cake, Dirty Kitchen

2010-08-02T22:32:00.001-07:00

But when it's your birthday, you shouldn't have to clean! :) I'll be 30 in exactly a year! Todd and I decided we'll start talking about a baby then. I told him to be ready. I don't know if I'll be ready--but he needs to prepare himself! :)

Barn House Swag

2010-07-31T20:14:00.000-07:00

Oh what a day. Barn House was insane. Seriously. We were there at 9am and we waited in a long line of cars to get in. I mean a LONG line. We finally got in at 9:30 and it was wall to wall people. Such a huge difference from last year. I guess the word got out about how awesome it is! But I kind of wish it was personal little secret! :) The above print is my favorite new treasure. I got lots of compliments on it. Except one little old lady asked what it was made of and then rolled her eyes at me. HA! It's cardboard. Whatever. I LOVE IT!

Got this box and have no where to put it. Don't have any idea what to do with it, but I still think it's great. :)

Whoops! Picture upside down....

Need to get some frame for these. I love yard long photos. :) After Barn House, made a stop at HomeGoods for the first time. Lots of crap, to be honest. But I could see how you could find some treasures there. It would take lots of checking every week and rumor has it we are getting one of our own in SeaTac! Yay!!

Puppy Jail

2010-07-28T14:30:00.001-07:00

It's the thought that counts, right?

2010-07-27T14:13:00.001-07:00

I got these two prints at a shop in Snohomish and Todd took it upon himself to hang them. Off center. :) And then for some reason hung the small frame too? He tried. That's what counts. :)

P.S. Notice Newton hiding behind the pillows? He loves to burrow!

The Little Black Cart Found a Home

2010-07-26T18:12:00.000-07:00

As my nightstand. I dig it. I feel like it needs a basket beneath? Yay? Nay? Meh, we'll see. Sorry, I've been mia. I was trying to get my life in order. And now it is. Mostly. :)

Fun with Decorating.

2010-07-06T14:07:00.000-07:00

I mean, making fun of decorating. Check it out here. Good stuff, I promise.

Here is a sneak peek...

"It broke through the wall during the last big storm and we decided just to leave it."

Memorial Day Weekend Deals

2010-05-31T12:40:00.000-07:00

Went to Snohomish this weekend and picked up some goodies. This little table is actually a set of two--nesting tables, but I split them up. $90 for both! :)

There were lots of things I wish I had bought. Loved this little chest.

And if this sign hadn't been $600--it would have come home with me too.

This little cart did come home with me! I'm still trying to figure out where to put it...I have a couple of possibilities.

This sign was pretty amazing too. As was the price tag. :) Hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend!

Finally!

2010-05-03T11:09:00.000-07:00

The second half of the sectional was delivered and all is good in the hood. Long story short--it's comfy! As is the slip covered chair! The ottoman is old and will probably get recovered shortly. Just have to find the prefect fabric. Also need to get some art to hang on the walls. The bike print is temporary and obviously doesn't look right above the couch as is. It is a hand me down from my parents and has a twin--of girls on bikes. I might change out the frames and keep them. We'll see! Also on the list is drapes and perhaps a rug. I also need to find a coffee table--any suggestions?? :)

2010-04-30T14:27:00.000-07:00

Dr. Newton and Mrs. Buffy Beasley might be cute, but sometimes they drive me absolutely insane. Car rides would be a perfect example of that. I swear, they are going to have me killed with all of the jumping around and barking. They both want to look out the window...and neither are tall enough. So, I got one of these from CSN:

Problem solved. It's like a little booster seat! :) They took their first ride in it this past weekend on our way to a Tuxes and Tails Event put on by the Humane Society. They got to walk the runway!

I'm going to have a nervous breakdown

2010-04-26T18:21:00.000-07:00

I'm exaggerating, of course. But I am super stressed about our new couch. We ordered a custom velvet gray sectional with nail head trim for our upstairs loft. This is the second couch we bought from this company. We LOVE our first couch. However, in our second purchase...things have been less than stellar.

First off, it was late. Communication in telling us it was late could have been better. Evidently, the nail heads had been done incorrectly. So they had to do the whole thing over.

Well, the day finally came for the piece to be delivered. Did I mention we also ordered a big overstuffed chair? Both pieces are BEAUTIFUL. The comfort level...not so much.

The sectional is a tight back English roll arm and it is not comfortable to watch t.v in at all. Now, I knew when we ordered it, it wasn't going to be like a overstuffed lazy boy. I knew that. But I figured it would be like the tight back we already owned downstairs. Or like the one in his showroom. Nay. The seat itself is fine and what I expected. The back is hard as a rock and you can't sink into it at all. It doesn't give. The chair is a similar situation. Hard as a rock.

Now, I called the company soon after they delivered telling them that I was worried about the hardness factor and whether or not it would soften up. They said, over time, it would. But the next day, I really started getting worried. Todd was pissed at the amount of money we spent and the comfort we got. I hated to complain to the company, because the owner is SUPER nice and really does make a beautiful product. However, we had spent a BUNCH of money and we were the ones that had to sit on it. So I called him and vocalized my concerns. He said he would talk to a local company and see what we could do about it. He said customer service is really important to him and I really appreciate that. But I got an e-mail from him today saying that he had consulted the upholstery company and they both agreed that there was nothing wrong with it. That it was well within the range of tight backs and that our couch is actually softer and more comfortable than the floor model. That bothers me. He did offer for me to come in and sit on his floor model again to compare. I know that our couch is not softer. I know I wouldn't have ordered the tight back based on the floor model if it was. Unless I am completely crazy!? Maybe I am. His other solution was to cut the back legs down, so the couch would have more of a lounge feel. I am open to that...but also worried that it will make it worse!

I am completely frustrated. I used to tell everyone about what a wonderful company this was and how if they needed a couch--they should get it there. I really hope I will still be able to do that. I don't know if I am being completely unreasonable or not. On one hand, it is custom--so you never know what the end product is going to be. On the other hand--it is custom, so it should be exactly what you envisioned. Right? Wrong? I'm so confused...I don't know anymore.

Three Years Later...

2010-04-20T16:23:00.001-07:00

And the TV is finally hung! It was a nightmare to do, btw. Todd ordered a universal mount and as you can see, it sticks out. It bugs me to NO end. The wires hanging down bug me as well. I'm temped to paint them the same color as the wall! :)

The makeshift bar on top is doing a bit of concealing as well. Although, the dvr box is out in the open. Meh. I still think I should have wallpapered the darn thing before we hung everything..but I'm sure that we be an additional 3 years from now!

Empty Space..Suggestions are welcome!

2010-04-07T16:06:00.000-07:00

I really need to figure out what to hang above the white couch. I would really like some kind of architectural salvage. Something dark, with texture. I can't seem to find anything to fit the bill.

I did consider these for a short time, but I think I need something dark.

This is darker, but doesn't fit the feel I'm going for. And I think I want one large, long piece. I love both the stags and the crowns, I think I will have to find a place for them elsewhere! :)

Baby Steps: The Guest Room

2010-04-06T14:59:00.000-07:00

The guest room is one step closer to being finished. The bedding is done. The paddles are FINALLY hung. Just need to get something to hang above the dresser, a side table (right now it's a food tray) , drapes and some accessories. I'm thinking these

Have you been living under a rock?

2010-03-31T14:21:00.001-07:00

I have. Cause I just found out about the most awesome place ever--CSN Stores. Ummm, hello everything. Seriously, they have everything. From entertainment centers to luggage. Baby gates to pet clothing. Sheet sets to cookware. You can buy a farmhouse sink if you want! Seriously. They have EVERYTHING. And brands that you have actually heard of. Kohler, Cuisinart, Sealy--you name it.

I've got a review on the way of one of their products. Here's a hint of who it involves:

One sign: Three Ways

2010-03-31T11:02:00.000-07:00

I picked up this great sign from My Sweet Savannah at the recent Come Junk With Us event in Bothell. I fell in love with it the first time I saw it in Brooke of Velvet and Linen's kitchen. Then I fell in love all over again when I saw it in My Sweet Savannah's kitchen. And now it's in mine! :) (Sorry for the dark picture, I tried like 100 times to get a better shot...to no avail.)

I love it when good things happen to good people!

2010-03-17T15:27:00.000-07:00

HGTV Dream House Winner: If you can't see the video, click here!

Sure would be nice to get something accomplished around here!

2010-03-10T17:24:00.003-08:00

I feel like I have started a lot of projects...and have yet to finish them. Case in point. All I have to do is these three little drawers and I'd be done. Maybe this weekend. Maybe.

Gratuitous puppy picture of the day..and a peak at my new Guestroom.

2010-03-05T12:30:00.000-08:00

2010-02-24T11:27:00.000-08:00

Craigslist Strikes Again!

2010-02-22T21:10:00.000-08:00

How many pillow posts can a girl do?

2010-02-18T22:26:00.001-08:00

Available here: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Giveaway Time!

2010-02-16T17:02:00.000-08:00

How does $50 dollars to Williams-Sonoma sound? Or perhaps West Elm is more your style? Totally up to you! All you have to do is leave a comment and become a follower. Yeah, I'm totally bribing you. I'm okay with that. Hopefully, you are too because $50 buys you all sorts of awesomeness. Here are just a few things you could spend your $50 on:

Check out West Elm and Williams Sonoma, now and pick out what you want! You have until next Tuesday to enter.

Tales from Craigslist....

2010-02-11T14:27:00.000-08:00

Last night we had a couple come over to look at a sofa we are selling. I had just gotten home and went to check on the dogs upstairs and make the couch look presentable with some pretty throw pillows. I screamed. The little monsters had ripped up their pee pad and pooped all over the floor! Of course, that was when the door bell rang and Todd escorted the couple upstairs. Did I also mention that my laundry was on the couch with my underwear and bras? Deeeeelightful.

Side note: Lately, I have found a lot of people on craigslist out of touch with reality. For instance, maybe you don't sell your stained, 15 yr old Lazy Boy recliner for $600. Maybe you shoot a little lower. Or the tv stand from Ikea that you are trying to sell for MORE than the price at Ikea. I swear, people are completely delusional!

Another Real Housewives Discussion...

2010-02-10T17:00:00.000-08:00

With the fabulous Emily from Scented Glossy Magaines, here.

I think I'm going to have to start pulling my hair out. In chunks. And then eating the evidence.

2010-02-10T15:32:00.001-08:00

Cause I am seriously at the end of my rope with this room. I try to shield you from your ugly. But I think it's time that you saw. This is the first room that you see when you walk in the door. And it is pure ooogly. We bought the desk before we bought the house--hence too big for the room. I was thinking of putting drapes covering the entire wall..but I don't think that will help. I can't get rid of the desk. So what do I do!? I don't want to start eating my own hair!

P.S. Don't get me started on the giant printer with all the cords. And the ugly lamps. And the rug that just doesn't fit my style. And the awful office chair. Or the styling in general. I blame this room on Todd. :)

6 cans of spray paint and it's still not done....

2010-02-08T14:57:00.000-08:00

You can still see the gray underneath. And I am the worst spray painter EVER. I am too impatient. So there are runs and bubbles. Oops. I think I might need to start the whole thing over. I'm contemplating doing a different color too. A raspberry. And then putting it in the gym with the wallpaper below....if I could find where they sell it! (Thanks for all the suggestions with that btw.) :)

Does anyone know who makes this wallpaper?

2010-02-07T00:46:00.000-08:00

Read the fine print...

2010-02-06T23:57:00.000-08:00

I just bought these Pottery Barn standard pillow shams on ebay yesterday at a great price. I happened to look at the listing again and I realized that they are monogrammed with the letters DTK. Might as well be WTF cause I didn't see it! What am I going to do with pillow that say DTK!? Do you think I can put a needle through the thread and pull it out? Gawd. I feel so stupid!

Do you watch the Real Houswives of Orange County?

2010-02-03T17:00:00.000-08:00

Awful, right? Like a car crash, that you just can't look away from. I got a chance to talk to Scented Glossy Magazines about it (the most awesome blog ev-ah, btw) so check it out here!

Gratuitous Puppy Picture of the Day

2010-02-03T14:17:00.001-08:00

One of Newton's online puppy friends passed away yesterday during a routine teeth cleaning. I can only begin to imagine how difficult today must be for her family. Hopefully, she is in doggie heaven with lots of bones and good tummy rubs.

Sailing Away....

2010-02-01T17:16:00.000-08:00

I won this little boat the other day from Miss Mustard Seed and was so excited when it finally arrived! It will be moved upstairs to the loft as soon as the new couch comes and I get some bookcases...but until then, it resides on the mantle. It is so cute--it makes me want to put on some Enya and sail away.....

Etsy has the best: Pillows

2010-01-28T14:29:00.001-08:00

My new couch isn't even here yet, but I am already thinking about pillows. I want the loft to feel like a Ralph Lauren Rugby store. Is that weird? I don't care. I'm dreaming about these babies from Hellkatdesign.

Love these too.

And these....

Barn House Marketplace Opens Tomorrow!!!!

2010-01-27T12:03:00.000-08:00

Couldn't be more excited. I think I want this hand. I think I NEED this hand. But what would I do with it!? No clue, I'm just in love. Remember to check it out tomorrow for the grand opening here. (But don't buy anything that I want. Okay? Deal? Okay. Good.)

Another peek....

2010-01-26T14:53:00.001-08:00

I swear, I'm not a tease...I just work very slowly. I purchased these plates from Faded Elegance in Snohomish and am thrilled with how they look above the bed. I would show you the entire bed...but I am having serious issues with the duvet. The comforter inside keeps getting bunched at the bottom and it looks really lumpy. And the thing weighs a ton! We have a hell of a time in the middle of the night pulling the darn thing up! I have duvet clips on it...but it is seriously kicking my butt. So a second peek is all you get! Here is the first, again, to refresh your memory...

Is it possible to get carpal tunnel from spray painting?

2010-01-25T13:51:00.000-08:00

Cause my wrists are hurting bad from painting this bad boy. Three cans of cream spray paint and it still isn't done. I bought these lockers this weekend off craigslist to mend my broken heart for not getting the dresser I wanted. From the picture, I thought they were the perfect shade of gray for my loft upstairs. But when I got them, they were not. So spray paint it was! I think I'm going to paint a gray stripe across them...or down each one. We shall see....

AHHHHHHHH!

2010-01-21T21:37:00.000-08:00

I get so aggravated sometimes with Craiglist! I found this dresser late last night and thought it would be perfect for our bedroom. No e-mail on the listing, so I waited till the morning to call. I called at 10am and he told me to call back at noon. Called at noon and left a message. He called me back at 4pm. I planned on picking up the piece at 7pm after work. He told me to call when I was on my way for the address. Did just that. But when I called, he said he sold it! NOOOOOO! I was thinking about it all day! I was decorating in my head!

Nettleton Hollow

2010-01-14T22:35:00.000-08:00

Stumbled upon this awesome website recently and thought I'd share: Nettleton Hollow. You might have seen them on Daily Candy already, but if not-- they have branches, flowers, fruits, pods--you name it. Perfect for vase fillers and for parties. I recently bought some pocket sconces and I think Myrtle branches are in order!

Gratuitous Puppy Picture of the Day: Make Me a Drink!

2010-01-13T12:57:00.000-08:00

Poof! You're a drink!

3 hours of my life...GONE.

2010-01-10T20:15:00.000-08:00

But well worth it. Cause momma's got a new couch! Well, I will. In two months. I went to Couch in downtown Seattle to get a custom sectional done. Custom because our upstairs loft is so long and narrow that a regular sectional is way too big.

I also had to take into account two cats that like to use my current couch as their personal scratching post. So my desire for linen was out. :( I went with this slate gray velvet. It will have similar nail heads too. But bigger and wider spread.

Also, got a chair that will look like this shabby chic portobello chair--but in an oatmeal cotton slipcover.

The sectional will have similar lines to this couch. Tight back and English arms. It will be fairly deep as well. I wanted something pretty but comfy. Hopefully, in two months, I will have just that!

Gratuitous Puppy Picture of the Day: She's just Checking his Molars....

2010-01-06T11:08:00.000-08:00

They are so weird. She likes to lick INSIDE his mouth. Gross. I know.

Home Gym

2010-01-05T21:33:00.000-08:00

Saw these great home gyms on Strictly Simple Style today and it totally makes me want to have a cute little workout room of my own. Maybe it would make me work out more. I mean, work out....period.

And where else would I have an excuse to use these whimsical wallpapers from Thornback and Peel?

Although it might be weird that my home gym walls are covered in food items.....

Way to go Target!

2010-01-05T14:56:00.001-08:00

This wallpaper clock from target looks a lot like this wallpaper clock from Anthropologie. $60 versus $128. Well played Target, well played.

Just a Peek....

2010-01-04T20:48:00.000-08:00

On what I'm working on in the old bedroom. Finally hung that gold craigslist mirror and some little vintage cards from Sadie Olive. Other corners of the room to come! :)

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T12:40:00.000-08:00

Peanut Petunia: A Year in Review

2009-12-31T14:43:00.003-08:00

Oh so many projects this year. Some got completed. Some..not so much. Some are still sitting in my garage. Maybe they'll get done in 2010. Maybe.

This was my favorite project of the year. My craigslist hutch.

It received a pretty coat of white paint, new knobs and countless re-arranging of accessories.

Here is the kitchen before we moved in. Horrible red lights. And a backsplash that wasn't to my liking.

Enter subway tile and schoolhouse lighting. Much better, if I do say so myself.

The dreaded purple carpet made way for hardwoods and actual furniture!

We lived like this for a few months. It was a little depressing.

But now, it's one of my favorite rooms. (Drapes made such a HUGE difference.)

And I'll always have a special place in my heart for my first painting project.

I actually have a red berry wreath hanging above that bench now and a sign on the way.

The dining room that has become a major pain (in my you know what) as of late. Here is is with the former mid century modern dining set I inherited from my parents.

Sold the set on craigslist and with the profits bought these ugly parsons chairs and a farmhouse table.

Add some white slipcovers and this is what the dining room looks like today:

It is a work in progress....

My second farmhouse table that I also found on craiglist. This one received a coat of paint on the legs and a new stained top. Voila--a new desk!

Not all of my projects were such huge undertakings.

My ebay sconces were a simple enough task.

As were these placemats.

And that my dear friends is Peanut Petunia 2009 in a nutshell. Hopefully, 2010 will bring more finished projects and much more fun!

I feel a project coming on...

2009-12-30T19:19:00.001-08:00

I love this image so much. The headboard is fantastic. But the basket--the basket is where I start drooling. So I think a project is in order.

I'm thinking our monogram...or perhaps numbers?

And then of course I need to find a fabulous basket. I've been hunting on craigslist and haven't come up with much. But I found these at target:

And these at the basket lady.

Anyone else have a fabulous basket source?

Damn you Craig!

2009-12-30T00:30:00.000-08:00

You have thrown another wrench into my decorating dilemma! Found this for $100 on craigslist. What do we think of it instead of the velvet sofas for the dining table? Yay? Nay? You know I can't make a decision without you! (You all should really charge for your design services.) :)

I belive this is what people in the industry refer to as "AWESOME"

2009-12-29T18:41:00.000-08:00

I mean seriously. Poster Calendars. What genius came up with this!? LOVE. IT. You can hang a month at a time or hang the whole lot! I have a pretty empty stairwell that this might look pretty cool in.....

Found here.

I can't make up my mind.

2009-12-28T20:30:00.001-08:00

Even if my life depended on it. I asked everyone a while ago about which drapes to use in my dining room. Still haven't picked a pair yet. But I'm trying to decide what to keep and what not to keep in that room color wise. I had thought that my green rug was going to be moved upstairs into the imaginary child's bedroom. But it's growing on me and I worry that my cats will shred a seagrass rug.

So now I'm deciding between these two sofas for the dining room table. Do I go with the green and keep the green rug? Moving the blue shutters to another part of the house?

Or do I go with the gray? And keep the blue theme going? Get rid of the green rug and hope to god my cats don't shed the seagrass.

What is your two cents? :) I'm sure I'll rock myself to sleep for days thinking about this one. Sobbing hysterically in the shower. You know, the usual. :)

Did you have yourself a Merry Little Christmas?

2009-12-26T12:14:00.000-08:00

I hope you did! Full of lots of good food and family! Hopefully, you also got everything you wished for too! If not, lots of great deals and lots of new items in stores. Look at what's new at Pottery Barn:

This menu will be mine. Oh, yes. It will be mine.

All images via http://www.potterybarn.com/

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T19:39:00.000-08:00

Have you Heard of Groupon?

2009-12-23T17:44:00.000-08:00

My friend Lindsay tipped me on to it and hello, yes, I love free stuff. It's basically great offers on stuff you'd buy anyway. Like $25 worth of oysters for $10! :) Not a bad stocking stuffer. They have it for different cities...but if you are in the Seattle area...check this link:

http://www.groupon.com/r/uu657204

Fab Etsy Seller

2009-12-22T22:41:00.001-08:00

Don't know if I'm late to the party on this one, but I just found etsy seller Gemini Studio. I just wish I had found it sooner so I could stock up on Christmas presents. Check it out:

A milkshake and some Christmas Lights

2009-12-09T18:32:00.001-08:00

That's what I call a hot night on the town. And after work tonight, that is exactly what I plan on doing! (A co-worker sent this pic around and it just made my day!) ;)

When it Rains, it POURS!

2009-12-07T15:59:00.000-08:00

Why is that? Why does everything happen at once? We have holes in our roof that need to be repaired. Todd got a $700 ticket for not having up to date tabs/proof of insurance, I need new tires before it snows, I lost my iphone (and feel like I'm missing an appendage) and now I have a crick in my neck. Seriously, when it rains, it POURS! :) Oy vey. Just need to vent. :)

Craigslist isn't just for Creepy Personal Ads.

2009-12-03T21:11:00.000-08:00

It always amazes me what one can find on craigslist. I mean look at that Louis XV style Canopy chair! I have no place for it, but it's so awesome! I swear, everything I want keeps selling like hot cakes. Curses!

I'm dreaming of a BLUE Christmas.

2009-12-03T17:30:00.000-08:00

And yes, I'm alive. I swear! I've just been missing in action. Sorry 'bout that! I'll try to not let it happen again!

We put the tree up and although I don't have all the ornaments up, I'd thought I'd post a few pics anyway. (I hate posts with no pics! )

Holey Moley!

2009-11-18T18:27:00.000-08:00

Washington had a pretty bad storm a few nights ago and there is supposed to be another one tonight! Our house backs up to a horse farm that has some dead trees on their property line. One of those trees thought that our roof liked like a comfy spot. So he decided to lay down right on it. Wait, not on it. Through it. And not one hole. Not two holes. Not even five. Or ten. ELEVEN. And one hole is a foot wide. Jealous? I knooooooow you are!

(Not my house btw.)

Velvet and Linen

2009-11-17T10:31:00.001-08:00

Brooke at Velvet and Linen is having the most amazing giveaway I've ever heard of. She and Mark Sage have teamed up to give away 3 brickmaker's coffee tables! THREE!! I almost screamed today when I saw my entry up on her website. I would seriously die a thousand deaths if I won. The competition is seriously stiff though and I could see anybody winning. Check out some of the entries here and while you're at it..enter your living room!

My new Favorite Etsy Seller: Simple Linens

2009-11-14T14:25:00.000-08:00

I mean what's not to love? Sink skirts and shower curtains. Table runners and slip covers.

Even coverlets! I seriously need to learn to sew. Check 'em out!

We have a Winner!

2009-11-14T14:08:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who entered to win the Pottery Barn key cabinet! Congrats to Mary Mary! I hope you love it! (I think I need to get one for myself!) I hope to do another giveaway soon, so again, thanks to everyone to entered!

I can't afford to hire a decorator...

2009-11-11T18:52:00.000-08:00

So, I need your advice. On my never ending quest to have a least the downstairs completely decorated, the dining room is almost done. I need window treatments. And artwork. And Maybe paint. So here are a few options....

Just a reminder of what it looks like now.

Option #1: I'm thinking these Pottery Barn drapes with this Williams Sonoma rug. It would flow well with the kitchen and living room.

Option #2: These William Sonoma Wide Stripe Drapes with a Seagrass/Sisal/Jute rug.

This option would also flow well with the open concept we've got going downstairs.

Option #3: Uses the same rug, but adds a lot more color with these Audrey drapes from Pottery Barn.

I feel like they would looks really good with the blue shutters.

BUT...do they go with the living room and the kitchen? Which option do you guys like best? #1, #2, or #3? Thanks!

If Macy's Can Do it....So Can I!

2009-11-10T21:57:00.000-08:00

If department stores start decorating for Christmas in October, why can't I?? I just couldn't help myself! I've been picking up all sorts of Christmas decorations here and there and I would simply hate to put them in storage for another month. I just had a fever....and the only cure was Christmas decorations!

So, I decorated the fireplace. Just the fireplace. No tree yet. Nothing else. Just the fireplace.

Don't judge. :)

Ha!

2009-11-06T23:16:00.001-08:00

Did you guys see this? Hilarious.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Obsessed.

2009-11-06T14:51:00.000-08:00

I become obsessed quite easily. Like with colors. I find a shade that I love and I inundate it into every aspect of my life. I do it with music too. I find a song I like and then play it into submission. Over and over again until my ears start bleeding and I hate the song.

But back to colors. It used to be the palest shade of aqua. I put it everywhere. Bathrooms, dishes, bedding--you name it. These days its an inky-black-blue shade. Mix that with my new found obsession with all things under the sea--and you add these beauties to my every growing MUST HAVE list.

I think my bedroom could use some new paint in my new favorite shade and these prints. LOVE. Found here and here.

**Don't forgot to enter my giveaway below! I forgot to mention that it ends NEXT Friday! :)

Just Because...

2009-11-05T17:15:00.000-08:00

I feel like Ed McMahon today. Without the giant check. Don't be disappointed, because I do have something that you might like......

The galvanized key cabinet from Pottery Barn. Like it? Would you like it to be yours? :) If so, just leave a comment and become a follower. That's it! (Unless you would like earn 3 more chances. Then just blog about this giveaway.) Okay, now that's it. :)

***Update: Forgot to mention this giveaway ends NEXT Friday! :)

Gratuitous Puppy Picture: Mrs. Beasley

2009-11-04T23:37:00.000-08:00

She gives good crazy eye. She would shank you given the chance.

That's a Good Man.

2009-11-04T23:20:00.001-08:00

My man. He made quite the dinner tonight. Bay scallops wrapped in applewood bacon with a port reduction sauce. He was so proud of himself. We even sat the table, which we never do since it's just the two of us. I didn't have the heart to tell him it was an appetizer. It was really quite delicious. Here is the recipe from epicurious.com......

For Port reduction
2 cups Ruby Port (500 ml)
1/2 cup superfine granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons whole black peppercorns
2 fresh mint leaves, torn into bits

For scallops
6 thin crosswise slices applewood-smoked bacon (1/4 lb), cut into thirds
18 bay scallops (preferably Nantucket; 1/3 lb), tough muscle from side of each discarded if attached
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Make Port reduction:
Bring Port, superfine sugar, peppercorns, and mint to a simmer in a 2-quart saucepan over moderately low heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat, then carefully ignite Port with a kitchen match, letting flames die down (this will take a few minutes). Simmer over moderately low heat until sauce is thickened and reduced to about 1/2 cup, about 15 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and cool to warm.

Cook scallops:
Heat a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderate heat, then cook bacon until some fat has rendered and edges of bacon start to brown, about 1 1/2 minutes per side. Transfer bacon to paper towels to drain.

Pat scallops dry and season with salt and pepper. When bacon is cool enough to handle, wrap a piece of bacon around each scallop and pierce scallop with a wooden pick to secure.

Heat oil and butter in cleaned skillet over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking, then sauté scallops, turning over once, until bacon is browned and scallops are opaque, about 5 minutes total. Transfer to a plate and serve with Port reduction for dipping.

Muchas Gracias!

2009-11-03T14:49:00.000-08:00

Flip Flop Bride was kind enough to hook a sister up with this fun award! So the deal is, I tell you 10 interesting things about myself and pass the award on to 10 other bloggers. Can do. Will do!

1. I work at a radio station doing afternoons from 2-7pm here in Seattle. My on air name is Mason. Sometimes I forget my real name!

2. I can't read a map to save my life. If I was ever kidnapped and left for dead a mile from my home with only a map and a flashlight...I proooooobably wouldn't make it.

3. I'm an only child.

4. I couldn't tell time until I was in 6th grade.

5. I love Neil Diamond. And Jay-Z. And Tim McGraw.

6. I never believed in Santa Claus, but I believed in the Easter bunny. For a loooong time.

7. I talk to the tv. I ask it questions. Like really? That's really going to make my hair shinier?

8. I had braces for 7 years.

9. I blow dry and flat iron my hair EVERY day. If I don't..it's huge. People never believe me when they see how HUGE.

10. I've spent $45 on shampoo before. All in the hopes that my hair won't fall out of my head.

Now to give this award to 10 fab bloggers:

Travel to the Netherlands

And what about Grace?

Undomestic Chica

From My Front Porch To Yours

Embellish

My bad.

2009-11-03T14:21:00.000-08:00

I forgot to post pictures of my slipcovers! They're old news at our house now, as I got them in August! But here they are none the less. I should have fixed them a little before taking the picture, but I think we all know by this point that I am extremely lazy. (Although, I think my thyroid might be to blame!) The green rug (that I love, but doesn't go) will hopefully be making it's exit sometime soon. I think it will look great in my imaginary child's room. :) Also, as you can see there are only 5 chairs that are covered. I'm holding out for a bench at the end. Hopefully, Santa gets my letter about that one. :) (Wow, I really abuse the smiley faces. And the parentheses !)

The Freeze is Over!

2009-11-02T12:09:00.000-08:00

Well, my spending freeze is finally over now that it's November. Woo. Woo. I got right down to business and bought a few things to satisfy my buying itch.

I've been wanting an Anne Wood Bird for some time now and they always sell out like hotcakes! I finally got my hands on this little one and she now resides in our powder room. I think she may need some friends....

Another item from my wish list is a vintage trophy. I think it needs some friends too. I hate it when my purchases get lonely

My Winnings!

2009-11-01T16:25:00.000-08:00

I took my Halloween costume winnings and bought this little baby! A french wine bottle drying rack. Although...I think it's too big. It doesn't fit under my cabinets and I'm worried it looks a little weird sitting on the island. Should I return it and look for a smaller one?

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-30T14:44:00.000-07:00

We had an office Halloween Party today and I won first place formy head in a freezer costume! Yay! I'm going to take my prize money and buy something purdy!

Wanna See Something Gross?

2009-10-29T18:20:00.000-07:00

I had a little accident in the garage involving flip flops and a little bit of water. I didn't think it was that bad until I went to the hospital the next day and they told me it was broken. And THEN they called and told me it wasn't broken. All I know is it hurts!

Thank You Google Reader

2009-10-27T21:40:00.000-07:00

It has been recommending some awesome new to me blogs. Like French Larkspur. AND not only a great blog, but a great store! Check out the goods!

My Greedy List!

2009-10-21T19:47:00.000-07:00

I'm participating in Vintage Junky's Wish List Party. It might as well be called my delusional list. Cause Most of these...ain't never gonna happen!

Personal Chef. Oh how I want a personal chef. Someone to be at my beck and call, making me the most delicious dishes.

Before I die, I will own a Range Rover. I may be 89 years old, but it WILL happen. Okay, on to my more practical list.

I would love a pretty armoire like this one.

I want to swap out my current dining room rug for a seagrass one.

I don't know if a barn door is practical in our current house, but boy do I want one.

We could use new stools for the kitchen. The ones we have are too tall and lack any style.

I think our target lamps need to find their way to the dumpster soon. To be replaced with these beauties.

I'm hoping to stumble upon an AMAZING vintage sign one of these days.

My mom is getting rid of two wing back chairs soon and I'd like to slipcover them and put them at the head of my dining room table.

We really need a couch of some sort upstairs. One this size, but with similar lines to the one below.

I want one of these vintage racks for our bathroom to keep towels on.

I need to skirt SOMETHING! Anything!

A bar cart! (I don't even drink really...but I like the look!)

Craigslist Scavenger Hunt

2009-10-20T16:42:00.001-07:00

I have a little routine everyday that I go through once I get to work. If I don't do it, I feel like I haven't accomplished anything. I start by going through my google reader, which is getting quite large. I usually have about 300 items to read every day. After that, I do my craigslist scavenger hunt. This is my list.

I found both of my farmhouse tables this way. Because, let's face it--craigslist can be hit or miss. So this list reminds of stuff that I need. Okay, stuff I want. I also try to keep it fairly vague, in the hopes that I'll find something pretty awesome.

Uh-huh. Yes.

2009-10-16T15:53:00.000-07:00

Saw these plates today on Wind Lost and thought I was going to have a heart attack. I love them oh so much. And Horchow is having a sale right now. Normally, a 20 piece set is $140...now only $115. Not bad. You get 4 soup bowls, 4 cereal bowls, 4 salad plates, 4 dinner plates, and 4 mugs. I kind of just want to hang the plates. I think they would look so good against my blue shutters in the dining room.

I did it all for the Nook.

2009-10-15T22:04:00.000-07:00

Well, I haven't done anything to it yet. But I will. Soon. Seriously, I will. Any day now.....

I want to wallpaper it, that's for sure. I'm obsessed with ticking these days, so I think ticking wallpaper is the perfect marriage. And then once that's done--I'm going to mount the TV and get the DVR off the floor. Then that will free up some space for a little make shift bar. Yup. Any day now......

My Imaginary Child wants to Redecorate...

2009-10-13T14:58:00.000-07:00

She's lucky her father and I are made out of imaginary money.

images from here.

It's only October, I know.

2009-10-10T12:52:00.000-07:00

But, Christmas will be at our house this year--for the first time ever. So I'm stocking up on Christmas decorations early. I'm in love with what Ballard Designs has this season.

Daily Dose of Awesome: Spool Side Table

2009-10-10T12:33:00.000-07:00

I'm kinda in love.

Meet. Mrs. Beasley

2009-10-07T15:07:00.000-07:00

Buffy Beasley. She's a whole pound!

Yay or Nay?

2009-10-06T16:30:00.000-07:00

Do you love or loathe? It's $40.

Daily Dose of Awesome: Framed Blueprints

2009-10-02T15:01:00.000-07:00

Okay, here is my brilliant idea. At least, I think it's brilliant. Framed Blueprints. (I think I stole the idea from that reality show Giuliana and Bill.) I'm going with a nautical them: tug boats, luxury liners, speed boats, etc. But you could easily do buildings, stadiums, famous monuments and what not. I'm thinking these will look great in our loft upstairs. With my future plaid sectional. Which I've been meaning to ask you guys, plaid couch...yay? Nay?

Work Video

2009-09-29T18:10:00.000-07:00

The $30 farmhouse table.

2009-09-29T12:17:00.001-07:00

Turned desk. I painted the legs a beige-white color and stained the top. There are lots of imperfections on the top, but meh. I don't really care. It makes the loft look a lot better and it's so nice that I can craft and watch tv at the same time! I'm still thinking about getting that vintage decal for the top....maybe after the spending freeze.